The collaboration between Alcoa of Australia and JAGA aims to diversify the global supply of gallium.
The initiative responds to growing global demand for gallium, recognized as a critical mineral by Australia, the United States, and Japan, where it is listed among 35 minerals essential for national security. The project seeks to diversify the global supply chain for this key resource, leveraging Alcoa’s established mineral processing expertise.
Elsabe Muller, president of Alcoa of Australia, stated: “This opportunity could deliver additional value from our established operations and further demonstrate how Alcoa’s long-standing mineral processing capabilities can be significant in supporting state, national and global objectives in technology and national defence. We welcome the opportunity to work with the JAGA partners, including Sojitz, who has considerable connection with midstream gallium refiners and manufacturers and would be an offtake customer in the project.”
Osamu Matsuura, chief operating officer of Sojitz’s Metals Resources and Recycling Division, emphasized: “This project has the potential to introduce supply options for Japanese semiconductor production critical to global downstream processing and manufacturing.” The partnership aims to support Japan’s semiconductor industry by ensuring a reliable gallium supply.
The companies are working toward a final investment decision by the end of 2025, with production targeted to begin in 2026, pending commercial agreements and regulatory approvals. Alcoa has noted that the venture is not expected to significantly impact its financial position or operational results.
This collaboration aligns with efforts to enhance the resilience of critical mineral supply chains, supporting technological advancement and sustainable industrial growth in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.
